Acts 3. “But Peter said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” (3:6) Honestly, I am struck by Peter’s boldness and confidence in this moment. He’s walking up to the temple for afternoon prayers, probably something they did often, and there is this lame guy sitting at the gate. Peter and John make extended eye contact with him – and I think this must have been the moment when the Holy Spirit nudged Peter and said this is a person I want to heal.

I am pretty sure that’s how it works when you are full of the Holy Spirit, walking so closely with God, looking for His leading, and believing that He wants to do exciting things to bring glory to God. Pentecost had just happened, and the power of the Holy Spirit was at work all around them. People were praying and helping each other, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles (2:43). The Holy Spirit must have been talking to Peter and John in that still, small, inner voice and they just knew God was going to heal the lame man. Peter speaks out in bold faith – rise up and walk – and the man does. Amazing!

What happens after the healing?

God is glorified. “All the people saw him walking and praising God and recognized him… and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.” (3:9-10) This is a very public healing, and it brings glory to God, while also authenticating the ministry of the disciples. Peter is very careful to point out that the healing was not done in human power (4:12). The glory is not for the disciples. Instead, it was “The name [of Jesus] and faith in his name that has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all.” (3:16) 

The gospel is shared. Peter uses this opportunity to share the good news of the gospel with many people. He calls all who witnessed the healing to “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out…” (3:19).

Blessings are promised for those who chose to follow Jesus. “God sent Jesus… to bless every one of you…” (3:26). In turning their hearts fully toward God, they are promised “…that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” (3:19-20)

Would you love to see people healed? Would you love to share the gospel and have others witness the awesomeness of the Lord? I would love to have times of refreshing from walking closely with the Lord and see all these things happen.

What do you long for? What can you do to lean into the Holy Spirit and connect with all that God is doing? Do you need regular times of prayer to strengthen your faith? What nudges have you felt from the Holy Spirit? How did you respond and did anything happen?

What stood out to you from Acts 3?